Belfast maternity hospital opening delayed after bacteria find

The MP for West Belfast, Paul Maskey, has contacted the trust to request an update on the progress of the hospital

“It’s disappointing to learn through a news article posted on social media that the new maternity hospital at the Royal Hospitals is facing further delays,” Mr Maskey said.

The Sinn Féin MP added that he had written to the trust’s chief executive “to establish the facts behind this news report”.

The new hospital is expected to have an admission unit, early pregnancy department and an active birthing centre with 10 dedicated rooms for mothers who choose midwifery-led care.

Also included in the development is a new neonatal unit with 45 cots.

A 10-bed ward is also located directly above the theatres to facilitate the care of high risk antenatal and postnatal women.

“Whilst this further delay is very disappointing, the safety of new mothers and their babies is our main priority,” the trust added.

“We will continue to address the required remedial works in order to ensure the building is safe to open to provide high quality care for women and their babies.”